Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Allah Save The Queen, Say Muslims




30 May 2012 15:30 Africa/Lagos


Allah Save The Queen, say Muslims

LONDON, May 30, 2012/PRNewswire/ --

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community unveils national Jubilee programme


A British Muslim community has set out plans to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee with street parties, lighting up of mosques throughout the UK, feeding the homeless and a launch of 200 special Diamond Jubilee buses across London - a unique contribution to this historic event.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120530/535675 )


Ahmadiyya Muslims will play the national anthem in street parties across 30 towns and cities from London to Glasgow. In Birmingham for example the celebrations will feature the Royal Navy band playing the national anthem at the mosque and congratulatory messages being read out in 60 languages by local community representatives.

There will also be special prayers for The Queen at 100 mosques and prayer halls belonging to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community - one of the oldest Islamic groups in Britain.

The community has also launched a special edition of the book 'A Gift for the Queen' written by their founder, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, on the occasion of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

The National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, Mr Rafiq Hayat said:

"In the history of the British monarch there have only been two diamond Jubilees, and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community have been involved with both.

"We share in our country's pride and joy at Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee. It is our heartfelt prayer that may God continue to protect the Queen and we look forward to the festivities of the Jubilee weekend and to make them as inclusive as possible.

"As Muslims, we are duty bound to serve Queen and country and we regard this as an important part of our religion as we were taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) that loyalty to one's country is a part of faith."

In addition, Ahmadi Muslims will:

- Take part in the Big Lunch on 3rd June

- Light up all its mosques across the UK

- Say special prayers for the Queen on 1st June

- Feed the Homeless - 10,000 will benefit from this endeavour

- Hold charity walks to raise GBP400,000 for the Queen's charities

- Fundraise through the community's women's network

- Organise blood donation sessions

- Hold interfaith symposia throughout the UK

A charity walk by thousands of community members around the Tower of London has already raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Queen's Jubilee charities.

London buses with the special Diamond Jubilee poster also feature the peace campaign website for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community http://www.MuslimsForPeace.org.uk


Contact:
Basharat Nazir, media@ahmadiyya.org.uk , Tel +44-7703-483-384
OR, Mahmood Rafiq, Tel +44-7971-060-962
http://www.loveforallhatredfornone.org
http://www.alislam.org


Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120530/535675

Source: Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK


Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time
29 May 2012
13:37 MEDIA ADVISORY: Central Park Celebrates Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee With "The GREAT British Run" on 31 May
12:47 888games Celebrates the Jubilee With a Tea Party Fit for a Queen
09:00 Celebrate Being British This Year with a Truly British Brand
28 May 2012
16:25 Be a Jubilant Cashback Queen
16:11 Bingocams Reveals Exclusive Golden Ticket Giveaway with GBP10,000 Jackpot
16:04 Paddy Power Bingo and Super Free Bingo Join Forces to Celebrate Queen's Jubilee
13:58 Sewa Day Pulls out of Government Initiative - Lack of Financial Accountability Mars Queen's Diamond Jubilee Celebration
09:00 British Drivers Loyal to Home Grown Motors
27 May 2012
15:17 New Jubilee Dessert Whips up a Buying Frenzy     
25 May 2012
13:03 Giant Photo of Royal Family Dominates the Thames for Jubilee     
12:29 The Queen's Diamond Jubilee: Thames Pageant, One of the Largest Ever Staged, to be Shown Live During the BBC's London Calling Season
12:28 Hotter Comfort Concept Launches Great British Shoes
24 May 2012
08:00 CATs-i Protects Property & Possessions During the Jubilee Celebrations
23 May 2012
22:15 Vi-Spring releases HRH Diamond Jubilee mattress
19:44 Visit The Land of The Royals With CIE Tours' New Best of Britain Vacation Package     
09:53 "On Her Majesty's Service" Celebrating The Diamond Jubilee at Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill





STEVEN SPIELBERG'S E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL RETURNS FOR UNIVERSAL STUDIOS' 100TH ANNIVERSARY


30 May 2012 12:00 Africa/Lagos

From Universal Studios Home Entertainment: E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
IN CELEBRATION OF UNIVERSAL STUDIOS' 100TH ANNIVERSARY, ONE OF THE MOST BELOVED FILMS OF ALL TIME COMES TO BLU-RAY™ FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER
E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL

STEVEN SPIELBERG'S UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE DEBUTS IN A DIGITALLY REMASTERED 30TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK WITH BLU-RAY™, DVD, DIGITAL COPY & ULTRAVIOLET™ OCTOBER 2012

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., May 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial , Academy Award®-winning director Steven Spielberg's magical adventure, celebrates its 30th Anniversary with its first-ever release on Blu-ray™ this October. Featuring an all-new, digitally remastered picture that delivers six times the resolution of DVD, as well as all-new 7.1 surround sound, the E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Anniversary Edition Blu-ray™ Combo Pack includes the 1982 theatrical movie, an all-new interview with director Steven Spielberg, and "The E.T. Journals" which features an hour of never-before-seen footage from the set of the film. The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack also includes UltraViolet™, a DVD and a Digital Copy of the film, offering fans a chance to relive the mystery, laughter and wonder of the iconic movie anytime, anywhere on the platform of their choice.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120530/LA15265)

In 1982, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial became the biggest blockbuster of the year, ranking #1 over 16 different weekends. Even today, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial remains the fourth most successful movie of all-time(1) in the United States. Nominated for nine Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Writing and Best Screenplay, the film took home four statuettes for Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Effects Editing, Best Sound and Best Music for John Williams' (Jaws) memorable score. The unforgettable cast includes the adorable Drew Barrymore (He's Just Not That Into You, Charlie's Angels), Henry Thomas (Dear John, Legends of the Fall), Dee Wallace (10, "Sons and Daughters") and Peter Coyote ("Law & Order: LA," Jagged Edge).

"When E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial premiered in 1982, it captured the imaginations of people young, old and everyone in between in a way that was unparalleled in modern movie history," said Craig Kornblau, President of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "A global cultural phenomenon—and the biggest box-office blockbuster of its day—E.T. brought out the child in all of us. We are thrilled audiences will now be able to experience the film in the astounding quality of Blu-ray™."

BONUS FEATURES ON THE E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL ANNIVERSARY EDITION BLU-RAY™:

The E.T. Journals: In this all-new bonus feature, retrace the day-to-day experience of creating E.T from never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes footage shot by Academy Award®-winning cinematographer John Toll. This piece will give viewers a unique feeling of being on the set and living the excitement of what it was like to make E.T.
Steven Spielberg & E.T.: Watch an all-new interview with Steven Spielberg, as he reflects back on the film and discusses his experience working with the actors, as well as his overall and current perspective on E.T.
Deleted Scenes: Two scenes from 2002 version of the film.
A Look Back: A special insider's look into the making of E.T. featuring interviews with Steven Spielberg, the cast, and others intimately involved with the film.
The E.T. Reunion: The cast and filmmaker reunite to discuss their thoughts on the impact of the film.
The Evolution and Creation of E.T.: From idea to screenplay, through casting and making the film.
The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams: Interviews and footage focused on the long-standing relationship between John Williams and Steven Spielberg.
The 20th Anniversary Premiere: Composer John Williams played the score of E.T. live at the Shrine Auditorium for the re-release premiere of E.T. This featurette gives us a behind the scenes look at this presentation.
Original Theatrical Trailer
Special Olympics TV spot
Designs, Photographs and Marketing
E.T. Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux
E.T. Designs by Carlo Rambaldi
Spaceship Designs by Ralph McQuarrie
Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux
Production Photographs
Marketing E.T.
UltraViolet™: The revolutionary new way for consumers to collect movies and TV shows, store them in the cloud, and instantly stream and download to computers, tablets and smartphones. Consumers can now truly enjoy their movies anytime, anywhere on the platform of their choice. Currently available in the United States only.
Digital Copy: The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack includes a digital copy of the film compatible with iTunes®, iPad®, iPhone®, iPod™, iPod™ touch, Android or online retail partners.
pocket BLU™ App: The popular free pocket BLU™ app for smartphones is now even better with newly updated versions for iPad®, Android™ tablets, PC and Macintosh computers, with features made especially to take advantage of the devices' larger screens and high resolution displays.
Advanced Remote Control: A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.
Video Timeline: Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
Mobile-To-Go: Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.
Browse Titles: Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™. They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.
Keyboard: Entering data is fast and easy with your device's intuitive keyboard.
BD-LIVE™: Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to access the latest trailers, exclusive content and more!

BONUS FEATURES ON THE DVD:

Steven Spielberg & E.T.
Deleted Scenes
A Look Back
The E.T. Reunion

SYNOPSIS
When an imaginative boy meets a lost alien, it is the beginning of one of cinema's most endearing friendships, as Elliot (Henry Thomas) helps the marvelous creature he calls E.T. find his way back home before government agents can capture him.

FILMMAKERS

Cast: Dee Wallace, Peter Coyote, Drew Barrymore, Henry Thomas
Directed By: Steven Spielberg
Written By: Melissa Mathison
Produced By: Steven Spielberg & Kathleen Kennedy
Edited By: Carol Littleton
Director of Photography: Allen Daviau
Production Designer: James D. Bissell
Music By: John Williams

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
BLU-RAY ™
Street Date: October 2012 – actual date TBD
Copyright: 2012 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Selection Numbers: 61123439
Running Time: 114:27
Layers: Dual
Aspect Ratio: 1:85
Rating: PG
Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 7.1 and 2.0, Spanish and French Dolby 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD
Street Date:
Copyright: 2012 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Selection Numbers: 61119825
Running Time: 114:27
Rating: PG
Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 7.1 and 2.0, Spanish and French Dolby 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish

About Universal Studios Home Entertainment
In honor of its Centennial anniversary, Universal Pictures proudly salutes 100 years of unforgettable films that have entertained audiences and touched the hearts of millions around the globe. In celebration of our first 100 years, Universal Studios Home Entertainment is proud to present a selection of our many beloved movies as part of an extensive year-long program that underscores the studio's rich cinematic history and indelible cultural impact.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios ( www.universalstudios.com ). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake.

(1) Adjusted for inflation.

CONTACTS

Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Michelle Slavich
Vice President, Publicity
Michelle.Slavich@nbcuni.com
(818) 777-5344

SOURCE Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Web Site: http://www.universalstudios.com




OTTER 501 Is In Theaters!



Otter 501 is a feature film in theaters now! See our Facebook events page for openings. When an adventuresome young woman discovers a sea otter pup stranded on the beach and in desperate need of a second chance, an entire species' survival gets personal.


A storm grows, a sea otter pup is separated from her mother, and a young woman bound for adventure blows in to town. On a wild, windswept beach these lives collide and an entire species’ survival gets personal. Offering a fresh take on the familiar nature documentary format, Otter 501 combines stunning natural history footage with clever, digital age storytelling. Through Katie’s eyes you will see our playful pup, otter number 501, get an amazing second chance at life in the wild. As the two learn to navigate the opportunities and risks of life without anchor we see the incredible efforts people have undertaken to return sea otters from the brink of extinction. Framed against the strikingly beautiful Monterey Bay coastline, the last stronghold of these iconic animals, Katie discovers just how serious this threat remains. Their adventure, unexpected as it was, illustrates what we can do to contribute to the growing movement to protect the southern sea otter…and ourselves.

NOW PLAYING:

MONTEREY, CA

at the Osio Cinema

SANTA CRUZ, CA

at the Nickelodeon

SAN DIEGO, CA

Opening weekend at the Gaslamp Stadium!

For a limited time you can watch OTTER 501 on Prescreen!



SEBASTOPOL, CA

Opening June 1 at Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol

PORTLAND, OR

Opening June 1 at the Fox Tower

DURANGO, CO

Opening June 8 at the Back Space Theatre

SANTA BARBARA, CA

Opening June 8 at the Metro 4 Cinemas

CORAL GABLES, FL

Opening June 8 at the University of Miami Cosford Cinema

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL

Opening June 15 at the Cinema Paradiso

TEMPE, AZ

Opening June 15 at the Valley Art Theater

GLOUCESTER, MA

Opening June 13 at the Cape Anne Community Cinema

BOULDER, CO

Opening June 22 at the Boedecker Theater





Monday, May 28, 2012

Winners of the 65Th Cannes Film Festival

Michael Haneke with his Palme d'Or. This is the second time the Austrian director has won the Palme d'Or after winning it in 2009 for his The White Ribbon.


The 65th Cannes Film Festival ended last night with the following winners.

1. Palme d'Or (Best Film) - 'Love'/Amour (Austria) by Michael Haneke



2. Grand Prix (Runner-up) - 'Reality' (Italy) by Matteo Garrone
Cannes 2012: What Sacha Baron Cohen, The Dictator, was up to
IBNLive

3. Jury Prize (Third Prize) - 'The Angels' Share' (Britain) by Ken Loach

4. Camera d'Or (Debut Film) - 'Beasts of the Southern Wild' (U.S.) by Benh Zeitlin

5. Best Director - Carlos Reygadas for 'Post Tenebras Lux' (Mexico)

6. Best Screenplay - 'Beyond the Hills' (Romania) by Cristian Mungiu

7. Best Actress - Cosmina Stratan and Cristina Flutur in 'Beyond the Hills'

8. Best Actor - Mads Mikkelsen in 'The Hunt'

Cannes Film Festival 2012: 20 best beauty looks





Sunday, May 27, 2012

Thank God for Our Children



Happy Children's Day to all our God sent children.
Especially the orphans who are among us.
God will protect and save your beautiful lives and secure your future for His glory! Cheers and God bless you.



Saturday, May 26, 2012

Africa Day 2012 – Celebrating the Diversity and Potential of the African Continent


Lord Mayor of Dublin, Andrew Montague, and Minister of State for Trade and Development, Joe Costello TD, pictured at the launch of Africa Day 2012, with members of the Afro-Irish Kidios Group.

25 May 2012 12:16 Africa/Lagos

Africa Day 2012 – Celebrating the Diversity and Potential of the African Continent


Minister Costello with H.E. Ms. Catherine Muigai Mwangi, Kenyan Ambassador to Ireland, and H.E. Mr Felix Yusufu Pwol, Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland, at the launch.

DUBLIN, May 25, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- A weekend of celebrations to mark Africa Day got underway in cities around the country today, with free festivals, film screenings, concerts and children's events designed to celebrate the diversity and potential of the African continent.



In Dublin, Africa Day will be marked by a free family festival at George's Dock which will run throughout the weekend. At 5.30pm today, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, Minister for Trade and Development Joe Costello and Lord Mayor of Dublin, Andrew Montague will launch the festival, along with Kenyan Ambassador to Ireland, Ms. Catherine Muigai Mwangi

Speaking ahead of the launch today, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said:

“Today is Africa Day and I am delighted to launch a weekend of events around the country to celebrate African identities and cultures and the richness of the relationships between Ireland and that great continent.

“I strongly believe that African countries, individually and working together in the African Union, can create a great future. Africa is a changing continent, with high economic growth rates and rapid development in terms of education and industry. Real challenges exist, but the African story right now is one of great energy and dynamism.

“African governments and communities are determined to overcome the challenges of poverty and hunger and move towards a new era of inclusive economic growth. My Department's Africa Strategy is designed to support this momentum, promoting a mature relationship between Ireland and Africa which encompasses strengthened political and economic links that build upon our historical missionary and development ties.”

Minister for Trade and Development, Joe Costello TD, said:

“Africa Day showcases the range of relationships that exist between Ireland and Africa and the importance of our strong and effective partnerships. I'm particularly delighted that so many of our African diaspora groups have become involved. Your participation sends out a strong message about how much you contribute to the fabric of Irish society

“Africa is a changing and complex continent. Some countries are experiencing high rates of economic growth, while others continue to face humanitarian emergencies and long-term poverty. Ireland is committed to working with you to realise the unrivalled opportunities for trade and inclusive growth which now present themselves, while continuing to support you in the fight against poverty and hunger.

“There is a strong dynamic and warmth to the Irish-African relationship that will only be enriched by the growing cultural, business, developmental and people-to- people links. Africa Day is an excellent example of this.”

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Andrew Montague said;

“Few events celebrate multicultural Ireland better than Africa Day. As the Lord Mayor, I am honoured to be involved, and I am looking forward to experiencing the wonderful sights and sounds of Africa at events over the coming days.

“I'm a regular visitor to Africa and have volunteered with the Irish charity CAMARA in Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia. I've seen that life in Africa is changing for the better for many people and we have a lot to celebrate in this year's Africa Day.

“It is important not to forget the people who came here looking for a home when times were good, and have stuck around even when many have been hit hard by the national financial crisis. Their contribution to Irish culture and society, as well as their impact on the changing face of 21st Century Ireland, cannot be underestimated.”

In George's Dock, Dublin this weekend, stalls from over 20 different African countries will provide food samples and showcase traditional costumes, arts and crafts. A range of workshops on travel and the contribution of the African Diaspora will be on offer, while children of all ages will be entertained at the kids' corner. Representatives from Irish Aid, the Government's programme for overseas development, and NGOs will also host a range of fun, interactive activities designed to inform families about their work in Africa.

Cork city will mark Africa Day with an eclectic line-up of music, dance and arts from 1.30pm at Bishop Lucey Park tomorrow. A host of African cultures will be highlighted throughout the day, with ethnic food, entertainment and workshops on offer.

Galway city will tonight celebrate all things African with an intercultural evening of music, songs and cultural performances at the Commercial Boat Club in Woodquay. The Galway African Film Festival begins at Nuns Island Arts Centre today and runs through to Sunday.

Limerick's weekend of African-themed festivities also begins today with activities including drumming sessions, children's storytelling, a ‘Charity Voices of Africa' concert. Other events over the weekend include Limerick Sportsfest, ‘May Music in the Park' and a Family Fun Day in the Daghda Space on Sunday.

All events are being supported by Irish Aid, in partnership with City Councils and others in each of the locations.

Full details of all Africa Day events, including timetables for the flagship family festival events in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick, are available at www.africaday.ie.

Source: Ireland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Top Reports

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25 May 2012
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14:34 Cuba Gooding Jr. Backs Chivas Regal's Campaign to Raise Awareness of FilmAid Internatonal
14:34 Chairperson Ping: the Spirit of Global Pan-Africanism must Prevail in the African Family
14:31 AU COMMISSIONER REPORTS ON PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF CARMMA AT THE GLOBALPOWER WOMEN'S MEETING
14:21 PRE-EIGHTH AFRICAN GOVERNANCE FORUM (AGF-VIII)




Happy 40Th Birthday To Tolu Oladipo





I thank our Almighty Father JEHOVAH God for the 40Th Birthday of my true friend who is more like my brother Tolulope Oladipo and I wish you all the best things in life with many more happier returns of the day, with longer life and more prosperity for the whole world to see and give God all the glory for HE alone deserves all the glory in the mighty name of HIS only begotten Son Jesus Christ our Lord. For as long as Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, Tolulope, you will continue to prosper in the abundance of the infinite Grace of our everlasting God who will continue to bless and increase you and comfort you and your entire family on every side. Happy Birthday!


There are friends who are friends, and there is a friend that is closer than a brother.

~<< Proverbs 18:24 >> Aramaic Bible in Plain English (©2010)




Cuba Gooding Jr. Backs Chivas Regal’s Campaign To Raise Awareness Of Filmaid International



FilmAid UK Chair Iliane Ogilvie Thompson, Chivas Regal Brand Director James Slack and Academy Award winning actor, Cuba Gooding Jr., celebrate FilmAid’s work in Cannes.



Cuba Gooding Jnr Speaking at Cannes on behalf of FilmAid


LONDON 25 May 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Chivas Regal, the original luxury whisky and official sponsor of the 65th Festival De Cannes, reaffirmed its commitment to its global brand partner FilmAid International, after announcing plans for a new global fundraising programme.

To mark the first year anniversary of the Chivas Regal FilmAid partnership, Chivas unveiled a new short film documenting the amazing work of FilmAid focussing on a FilmAid project at the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya.


FilmAid Iliane Ogilvie Thompson, Cuba Gooding Jr. and James Slack

FilmAid is a non-profit organisation that uses the power of film and media to transcend language and literacy, bringing life-saving information, psychological relief and much-needed hope to refugees and other communities in need.

The announcement was made yesterday at an intimate event in the Chivas House on the Croisette and is part of Chivas Regal’s renewed ambition to raise awareness of FilmAid’s work whilst at the same time continuing to provide financial support for projects in East Africa to Asia and Haiti.

Oscar winning actor and FilmAid supporter, Cuba Gooding Jr., joined FilmAid UK Chair Iliane Ogilvie Thompson and Chivas Regal Brand Director, James Slack on stage for an exclusive screening of the new short film commissioned by Chivas.

In addition, to help bring the partnership to life in Cannes, the film was supported by an exhibition of images captured during filming by distinguished Magnum Photos photographer, Olivia Arthur.

Cuba Gooding Jr. praised FilmAid’s unique work in using the power of film to bring hope and joy to refugees. He said: “Communities in crisis need information and empowerment. FilmAid provides both through the power of film, and I am delighted to be here to support their work and the generosity of Chivas Regal.”

Cuba is in Cannes for a special screening of the film, Red Tails, which he stars in and which tells the true, heroic story of the Tuskegee airmen. He is joined by George Lucas, director Anthony Hemingway, and producer Rick McCallum for a special screening on Friday, May 25th at 9:30PM on the Cinema de la Plage.

James Slack, Brand Director, Chivas Regal, said, “After a successful first year of the partnership, we are delighted to reaffirm our commitment to FilmAid. Generosity of spirit lies at the heart of the Chivas brand and we are proud to play a continued role in providing financial support to projects worldwide.”

“The FilmAid film will help kick-start our fundraising plans for the year ahead but equally as important raise awareness of the charity’s amazing work by bringing FilmAid’s inspirational story to Cannes.”

Caroline Baron, FilmAid Founder, said, “FilmAid was formed in 1999 with the belief that movies could have a healing effect on refugees and displaced people, specifically those fleeing war in Kosovo.”

“More than a decade later, FilmAid’s work exhibiting and producing educational and inspirational films is thriving in communities affected by war and natural disaster in Haiti, Kenya, Thailand and beyond. Our work would not be possible without the generous support of organizations like Chivas Regal. We are deeply grateful.”

Since the launch of the partnership, Chivas Regal has pledged over US$250,000 investment to support FilmAid projects around the world. The funds raised have assisted with the operational costs of these projects, in particular areas such as film workshops, outdoor evening screenings and community based film production.

This year, the partnership continues with greater global ambition to raise awareness for FilmAid. Plans are already underway for a second Chivas Legend’s fundraising dinner in Dubai, as well as an increased presence at future events and film festivals providing more opportunities to promote the partnership and raise much needed funds.

Chivas Regal and FilmAid International: Inspiring and educating displaced communities through Film.


For more information, please contact:

Jennie Norrish
Head of PR – Chivas Brothers
Tel: +44 (0) 208 250 1739 / Mobile: +44 (0) 7717 450 023 / jennie.norrish@pernod-ricard.com

Vanessa Jerrom
French/International PR
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 97 42 47 / VJ Mobile: +33 (0) 6 14 83 88 82/ vanessajerrom@wanadoo.fr

Victoria Suzman
Projects Coordinator – FilmAid International UK
Tel : +44 (0)777 269 7841 / vicky@filmaid.org

For free editorial content from the FilmAid partnership launch, visit the Chivas FTP site:

Click on the following link ftp.chivasincannes.com

To view this FTP site in Windows Explorer, click Page, and the click Open FTP Site in Windows Explorer.
Username: FilmAid
Password: Chivas2012FA

Press Conference Pictures
Picture 1 – Chivas FilmAid 01 (left to right) Iliane Ogilvie Thompson, Cuba Gooding Jr. and James Slack
Picture 1 – Chivas FilmAid 02 Cuba Gooding Jr

Magnum Images

Images licensed for editorial use in relation to stories on Chivas Regal/Film Aid only. No cover usage.

Images must be credited ©Olivia Arthur/Magnum Photos.

Notes to Editors

Chivas Regal is now in its fourth year as official supplier of the Festival de Cannes – the most exclusive and celebrated international film festival.

2012 Festival de Cannes marks the second year of the global brand partnership between Chivas Regal and FilmAid International

Chivas Regal provide financial support for FilmAid projects around the world; this started with an initial donation of $100,000USD presented at the partnership launch at the Festival de Cannes in 2011. The partnership continues with greater global ambition to raise further funds and awareness of FilmAid projects worldwide.

In March this year, Chivas Regal commissioned a film crew and Magnum Photos photographer, Olivia Arthur, to shoot on location at a FilmAid project at the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya.

About FilmAid International

FilmAid International is a non-profit organisation that uses the power of film and media to transcend language and literacy, bringing life-saving information, psychological relief and much-needed hope to refugees and other communities in need around the globe.

Working in refugee camps, urban slums, disaster zones and other communities in crisis, FilmAid’s screenings provide a vital channel for conveying knowledge, empowerment and hope.

FilmAid operates two on-going programmes in Kenya: the Kakuma Refugee Camp (93,000 people) on the border of South Sudan and the Dadaab Refugee Camp on the border of Somalia (nearly 500,000 people). These programmes serve refugees from Sudan, Somalia, Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Burundi and Ethiopia. FilmAid also works with challenged communities within Kenya, including the Mathare and Kibera Slums. In late 2009 FilmAid started working with Burmese refugees in Thailand, and in 2010 began work with Internally Displaced Persons in Haiti, following the devastating earthquake.

Contacts

Jennie Norrish
Head of PR – Chivas Brothers
Tel: +44 (0) 208 250 1739 / Mobile: +44 (0) 7717 450 023 / jennie.norrish@pernod-ricard.com

Vanessa Jerrom
French/International PR
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 97 42 47 / VJ Mobile: +33 (0) 6 14 83 88 82/ vanessajerrom@wanadoo.fr

Victoria Suzman
Projects Coordinator – FilmAid International UK
Tel : +44 (0)777 269 7841 / vicky@filmaid.org.



Friday, May 25, 2012

Janet Jackson Rocks The Red Carpet at amfAR Event in Cannes


Nutrisystem Success Story Glows in a Pucci Gown

JANET JACKSON, NUTRISYSTEM SUCCESS STORY, ROCKS THE RED CARPET AT AMFAR EVENT IN CANNES. (PRNewsFoto/Nutrisystem, Inc.)


CANNES, France, May 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Janet Jackson, singer, songwriter, actress, advocate, and author walked the red carpet tonight in Cap d'Antibes, France at the Cinema Against AIDS (amfAR) event being held in conjunction with the Cannes Film Festival. Ms. Jackson glowed in a Pucci by Peter Dundas gown, shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti and jewelry by Pomellato.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120524/NE13734 )

The Nutrisystem brand ambassador, who recently inked a film production deal with Lionsgate, was in France in her role as co-chair of the Cinema Against AIDS event which attracts a diverse guest list including many of the celebrities and personalities associated with the film festival as well as familiar faces from the worlds of fashion, music, business, and international society. Since 1993, Cinema Against AIDS events around the world have raised over $70 million for lifesaving AIDS research.

Ms. Jackson was unveiled as the new face of Nutrisystem in December 2011 and has appeared in national advertising campaigns showcasing the iconic superstar's weight loss on the Nutrisystem® SUCCESS™ program and her journey to sustainable, healthy eating.

For more Janet Jackson assets please visit: http://newsinfusion.com/events/nutrisystem.

About Nutrisystem

Having helped Americans lose millions of pounds over the last 40 years, Nutrisystem, Inc. [NASDAQ: NTRI] is a leading authority on nutrition research and the science of weight loss and is also the number one home delivery weight loss company.

Nutrisystem offers balanced nutrition in the form of low glycemic index meal plans designed for women, men, vegetarians, seniors and diabetics. Nutrisystem® plans include a variety of great tasting, satisfying, balanced meals delivered right to your door. The Fort Washington, PA-based Company also provides weight management support and counseling by trained weight-loss coaches and registered dietitians, as well as through an engaged online community, online tools and trackers as well as mobile apps. Nutrisystem is available directly to consumers through www.nutrisystem.com, by phone (1-800-435-4074) and at select retailers.

SOURCE Nutrisystem, Inc.

Source: PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1cHC1)



Before You Deflower Me



Before You Deflower Me

Before you deflower me
Have you paid my dowry?
For how can you possess a virgin land without the deeds?
For I am not yours until you have proven your worthiness
Not by mere words or sheer sweat in the heat of your lust
But by proof of your labour and valour in my conquest
For my treasure is not for any man’s pleasure
Until you can prove that you are worthy of me in full measure.


~ By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima, Friday May 25, 2012.



Thursday, May 24, 2012

When the Poet Falls in Love



When the Poet Falls in Love


When the poet falls in love
It is as crystal as the fountain in the park
And the poet sings like the skylark
The pen drips of honey as words flow from his heart
He dances away from anything that will upset his apple cart
He can even walk over hot coals without feeling any pain
And he is ready to go running to her in the torrential rain.
When the poet falls in love.

When the poet falls in love
Do not be surprised to see him thinking aloud happily on the street
Do not be surprised to hear him grinning and tapping his feet
As he wears his heart on the sleeves of his sweatshirt
And if he cannot hold her waist, he is happy to grab her skirt.
He will promise her heaven on earth in the Eldorado of his fantasy
And even when the honeymoon is over he is still enraptured in ecstasy.
When the poet falls in love.


~ By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima, Thursday March 29, 2012., Lagos, Nigeria.



Nigerian Star Playwright Janice Okoh Serves Hot Egusi Soup in London



The celebrated Nigerian prize winning playwright Janice Okoh is serving her delicious Egusi Soup to the celebs and others in London.

Egusi Soup is a new play about love, life and loss, with plenty of spicy bits!

Wed 23 May – Sat 9 June, Soho Theatre, London.

Sat 16 June, Mercury Theatre, Colchester

A fast, furious and funny new intergenerational and cross-cultural Nigerian family comedy from Janice Okoh. As the Anyias, a British-Nigerian family, pack their suitcases and prepare to head home to Lagos for a memorial service in honour of the late Mr Anyia, they soon realise they will need to get rid of some excess baggage first, and not just of the material kind. The chaotic return to London from the USA of the Anyias’ eldest daughter, Anne, disrupts the family equilibrium that has settled after her father’s death, and deeply held resentments resurface dramatically.



Janice Okoh is an award winning playwright. In 2011, her play The Real House (Three Birds) won the Bruntwood Prize and was short-listed for the Verity Bargate Award and the Alfred Fagon Award. Her recent theatre productions include: Top Brass (Theatre 503, 2010), a short play written in response to The Charming Man by Gabriel Bissett-Smith. Her recent radio plays include: Reunion (BBC Radio 4 Extra, 2011); Carnival, a short play for the From Fact to Fiction series (BBC Radio 4, 2010) and SE8 (BBC Radio 4, 2010). This year, Janice has adapted Malorie Blackman’s novel Noughts and Crosses for the Saturday Play (BBC Radio 4).

Making up the cast are: Ellen Thomas, Rhoda Ofori-Attah, Anniwaa Buachie, Nick Oshikanlu and Lace Akpojaro.

Ellen Thomas is one of the country’s leading black actresses. She has been twice nominated for Best Actress in the EMMA Awards and nominated as Best Actress by Screen Nation and The Black Media Awards.

Ellen has a hugely successful TV, film and stage career. She has appeared in Eastenders as Grace and 4 series of the hugely successful Teachers. Other regular roles include: 3 series of Cardiac Arrest and leading roles in London Bridge, Holding On and The Jury. Ellen also appeared in Buried Treasure alongside John Thaw for LWT which won the 2002 BAFTA Audience Award. Theatre work includes: Tiata Delights at The Almeida; Statement Of Regret at The National Theatre; The Estate, Soho Theatre; womanliness Monologues on Tour; Blest Be The Tie at The Royal Court; Maria in Twelfth Night at The Manchester Royal Exchange and A Bitter Herb at The Bristol old Vic, for which she won fabulous reviews.

Egusi Soup is a co-production between Soho Theatre and Menagerie Theatre Company in association with Mercury Theatre, Colchester.

Menagerie is one of the UK’s leading independent new writing theatre companies, seeking out and supporting talented new writers. As well as touring widely, Menagerie curates and produces the annual Hotbed Festival in Cambridge. www.menagerietheatre.co.uk
Egusi Soup was developed at Menagerie’s Sparks programme and then at Hotbed. Janice Okoh is a Menagerie Associate Writer.

Soho Theatre aims to bring the most entertaining, brave and theatrical new work to audiences across a programme spanning comedy, cabaret and theatre; with three spaces, a late night bar, innovative education projects and world famous writers’ centre, Soho Theatre is one of the most vibrant venues on London’s cultural scene.

Egusi Soup Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EgusiSoupMenagerie


For more information, tickets for press night (Friday 25th May), biogs, interviews or photographs, please contact:

Mhari Gallagher
e: mhari@menagerie.uk.com
t: 01223 322111
m: 07725739106



Happy 21st Wedding Anniversary To Chief & Mrs Eze C. Eze


Chief & Mrs Eze C. Eze Cutting Their 20th Wedding Anniversary Cake.

TODAY, 23RD MAY, 2012 MARKS MY 21ST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY!!!


To the glory of God based on His infinite mercy and luv and with a heart full of happiness and gratitude to God Almighty, I am happy to announce to all my friends, enemies and associates that today 23rd May, 2012 marks my 21st wedding anniversary to a rare gem and embodiment of motherhood –fmr ADA CHIOMA HENRIETTA NWAORGU OF IMO STATE.


Chief & Mrs Eze C. Eze During Their 20th Wedding Anniversary.

This lady that I met on 16th January, 1986 in UNICAL we were students and thru sports came together as friends. I was then the University Students Director of Sports, UNICAL Football Team-Manager and Sports Coordinator of Faculty of Arts of UNICAL while she was the Athletics Captain and a key member of the University female Football Team. In assisting me to coordinate the female athletes in 1986, we won the 1986 Inter-Faculty Games of the University. She was a close ally in most of the key feats I achieved both as a student and student’s union activist!



She left the University in 1988 to do her youth service in Port Harcourt while I left in 1989 to serve in Yola in the then Gongola State present day Taraba and Adamawa States. We got married formally on 23rd Dec, 1991 at her home town, Ngo-Okpala in Imo State and wedded by Bishop Ignatius Kaigama in St. Theresa Catholic Church in Yola on 23rd May, 1992. She assisted me to set up Eze Continental Investment Ltd from the scratch and today it has become a household name in the entire North East of Nigeria in areas of Sports Promotion and selling of the best quality of sports equipment until January 2012 when we were forced to leave Yola due to the menace of Boko Haram to our present abode in Abakalik, Ebonyi State.


Mrs. Eze and their son Kelechi.

To the glory of God we are blessed with six great kids. Two of them are already in the University studying Computer Science and Public Administration, two to enter university before the year runs off while the last two are in Secondary and Primary Schools.

The devil and his cohorts knowing how great this family ordain by God will be plotted to eliminate my entire family when on 21st Dec, at Ogoja in CRS my Jeep conveying my wife and five of my kids for the xmas was involved in a fatal accident with a FAD Trailer that cost the lives of the Driver and two of the conductors of the trailer while nobody in the Jeep sustained any serious injury. Just for God to prove His luv and concern for my family.

My brothers and sisters, join me to pray and thank God for seeing us through till this day as we rededicate our lives for better services to mankind!

If there is anything like reincarnation, I will still pray God to grant me the grace to remarry this great gift to mankind!


~ Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, 23-05-12